Victoria's elite Homicide Squad has formally concluded its involvement in the mysterious death of a Norlane man, handing the complex investigation back to detectives in Geelong. The case, which has puzzled authorities for months, remains active as local police pursue further lines of inquiry.
A Mysterious Death in a Geelong Unit
The investigation centres on the death of Andrew Tait, 49, whose body was discovered inside his Shannon Avenue unit in the northern Geelong suburb of Norlane on Tuesday, April 9. Emergency services were called to the residence just after 11:30 am that day following reports of a concern for welfare.
Despite the efforts of paramedics, Mr Tait was pronounced dead at the scene. The circumstances surrounding his death were immediately deemed suspicious, prompting a significant police response. The Homicide Squad, a specialist unit within Victoria Police that investigates complex and suspicious deaths, took charge of the probe shortly after the discovery.
From Homicide to Local Hands
After a thorough examination of the scene and initial evidence, the Homicide Squad has now determined its specialist resources are no longer required. A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed the transition, stating, "The investigation has been handed back to local Geelong detectives for further investigation."
This procedural handover does not signify the case is closed. Instead, it indicates that the initial high-level forensic and investigative work by the homicide team is complete. The case file, along with any evidence gathered, has been transferred to detectives from the Geelong Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU), who will now continue the ongoing investigation into the full circumstances of Mr Tait's death.
The exact cause of death has not been publicly released by police, and authorities have remained tight-lipped about specific details uncovered during the Homicide Squad's involvement. The handback suggests that while the death remains unexplained and suspicious, the immediate indicators that necessitated the elite squad's expertise have been addressed.
Community Awaits Answers
The quiet Norlane street where the tragedy unfolded was the subject of a major police presence for several days in April. Forensic officers meticulously combed the unit for clues, while detectives canvassed the neighbourhood for witnesses and information.
The return of the case to Geelong CIU detectives means the investigation enters a potentially protracted phase of follow-up inquiries, witness re-interviews, and evidence analysis. Local detectives are now tasked with piecing together Mr Tait's final movements and determining the events that led to his death.
Police have reiterated their appeal for public assistance. Anyone with information, particularly those who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the Shannon Avenue area in early April, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The community of Norlane and Mr Tait's loved ones continue to wait for answers as the meticulous work of local detectives continues.
